He has not started a senior game since then and again looks likely to be no more than a substitute for the visit of Arsenal on Saturday.

Although midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu starts a three-match ban following his red card at West Ham, Clarke is optimistic that midfielder James Morrison will be available after a three-week absence with knee trouble.

Steven Reid is also expected to be fit to challenge for a return, contesting the right-back slot with Billy Jones.

"Everybody has been out on the training pitch at various times but you do have knocks at this time of the season and we'll see how they all are nearer the game," Clarke added. "We played a lot of good football at West Ham, but you have to do the ugly side and stay in the game."